Device for closing an opening

ABSTRACT

A device ( 11 ) for use in closing a leadthrough ( 2 ) in a constructional element for conduits ( 3 ) includes a frame member ( 16 ) enclosing a leadthrough space ( 17 ), and a plurality of strip-shaped sealing elements ( 18 ) arranged in the leadthrough space ( 17 ) displaceably relative to each other, with the frame member ( 16 ) at least one of frame section ( 19 ) having an opening ( 20 ) through which the strip-shaped sealing elements ( 18 ) are at least partially extendable out of the leadthrough space ( 12 ).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a device for closing a leadthrough in a constructional element, in particular, for closing a wall leadtrough, for conduits such as cables, pipes, channels, and the like, and including a frame member enclosing a leadthrough space, and a plurality of strip-shaped sealing elements arranged in the leadthrough space displaceably relative to each other.

2. Description of the Prior Art

In order to be able to pass conduits through a constructional element such as a wall or ceiling of a building, leadthroughs are provided in the constructional elements. In order to prevent spread of fire in the building in case of a fire, the leadthroughs should be closed with suitable elements. In addition to the prevention of the spread of fire, also, the spread of produced, in case of a fire, flue gases should be prevented.

Suitable elements for closing leadthroughs are, i.e., compressible plates of mineral wool which are cut in accordance with dimensions of leadthroughs and are squeezed into the leadthroughs. As sealing elements, soft, slightly deformable plates, which are directly screwed to constructional elements which surround the leadthroughs, are used. Alternatively, preliminary prepared modular blocks, which are piled up in leadthroughs for closing the same, can be used. In order to provide a free space in the closing elements for conduits, which are to be passed through the leadthroughs, the closing elements are adapted with suitable tools at the use site, and the produced slots and openings are closed, e.g., with a sealing mass or with sealing elements.

A drawback of all of the conventional solutions consists in that with a temporary closing of the leadthroughs, during removal of conduits or a subsequent insertion of additional conduits, the inserted sealing elements need first to be removed, if necessary, using suitable tools, and then again need to be inserted in the leadthroughs. These additional works are time-consuming and in most cases costs-intensive. Often, the above-mentioned elements, after being removed, cannot be used again, and new elements need be used. The original elements must be separably disposed.

German Patent DE 41 31 147 C2 discloses a device for closing a wall leadthrough for passing through conduits with a frame member enclosing a leadthrough space. On the frame member, there is suspended an apron of copper wire mesh having, at a lower end edge, a fringe falling between the pass-through conduits. The apron is pivotally supported on the frame member with a hinge. For removal of conduits from the leadthrough and insertion of conduits thereinto, no special tool is necessary. The drawback of the device consists in that with large differences in the conduit dimensions, e.g., in conduit diameters with bundlings of several conduits, the device cannot insure a flue gasproofness without additional measures. Moreover, a complete filling of the leadthrough with several conduits, together with a reliable flue gasproofness, is not possible.

German Publication DE 103 26 775 A1 discloses a device for closing a wall leadthrough for conduits and having a frame member enclosing a leadthrough space in which there are arranged a plurality of pairs of strip-shaped sealing elements which are formed of an intermescent material, extend parallel to each other, and are displaceable relative to each other. A later insertion of conduits into the leadthrough requires no instruments. A drawback of the disclosed device consist in that with filling of the leadthrough with conduits having different diameters or with different bundles of several conduits, the flue gasproofness is not insured until the strip-shaped sealing elements expand. Moreover, the closing of the leadthrough takes place within the box-shaped frame member and, therefore, can only partly be ascertained from outside by the worker.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is a device for closing a leadthrough in a constructional element that would insure a flue gasproofness of the leadthrough to a most possible extent without any additional elements.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for closing a leadthrough that would provide for a later insertion of conduits without use of any tools, while simultaneously insuring a flue gasproofness.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

These and other objects of the present invention, which will become apparent hereinafter, are achieved by providing a frame member at least one frame section of which has an opening through which the strip-shaped sealing elements are at least partially extendable out of the leadthrough space that is enclosed by the frame member.

A plurality of strip-shaped sealing elements close the leadthrough space, which is enclosed by the frame member, in a fence-like manner. The strip-shaped sealing elements are tightly arranged next to each other, forming a substantially closed wall. Advantageously, all of the strip-shaped sealing elements are arranged parallel to each other. In addition, to a flue gasproofness, the inventive device also insures damping of an airborne noise. The strip-shaped sealing elements are formed, advantageously, of a close-cellular material, e.g., of a close-cellular foam material, are arranged tightly next to each other, and can be easily displaced relative to each other.

As a result of such arrangement, the strip-shaped sealing elements can be easily conformed to the profile of the pass-through conduits. Through the opening in at least one frame section of the frame member, each separate strip-shaped sealing element can be withdrawn from the leadthrough space in accordance with the profile or contour of the conduits passing through a corresponding region.

Advantageously, the at least one opening is formed as a through-slot, with the frame section provided with the through-slot, forming a top section of the frame member in the mounted condition of the device. The sections of the strip-shaped sealing elements, which project from the leadthrough space through the through-slot, can be pulled down for closing gaps and openings beneath the conduits and between the adjacent conduits. Thus, no additional fireproof materials, such as sealing masses or moduls, become necessary for a perfect closing of a leadthrough in a constructional element. The tight arrangement of the strip-shaped sealing elements next to each other insures a flue gasproofness and a cold flue gasproofness achievable with the inventive device.

The width of separate strip-shaped sealing elements can be selected within a large range of widths. However, a plurality of strip-shaped sealing elements with a small width insure a better closing or sealing of the leadthrough. Instead of one uniform width, the strip-shaped sealing elements of the same device can have different width. E.g., in the side, edge regions of the leadthrough enclosed by the frame member, strip-shaped sealing elements can have a greater width than the strip-shaped sealing elements in the central region of the leadthrough space.

Advantageously, there is provided on the frame member at least one locking device for securing the strip-shaped sealing elements which are positioned relative to each other. In order to remove conduits from the leadthrough or insert additional conduits into the leadthrough which is closed with the device in which the strip-shaped sealing elements are fixed, firstly, the locking device is released, an appropriate adaptation is made and, after aligning of the strip-shaped sealing elements anew, the locking device is tightened, fixing the strip-shaped sealing elements. The locking device acts on the strip-shaped sealing elements preferably sidewise, i.e., transverse to the longitudinal extent of the strip-shaped sealing elements. Upon tightening of the locking device, the gaps between the strip-shaped sealing elements are closed, which substantially improve the flue gasproofness of the formed sealing. When the strip-shaped sealing elements are made from a compressible material, a particularly tight closing of the leadthrough is achieved when the locking device is tightened. The locking device includes a pressure place, which is provided in the frame member, and screws which act on the pressure place, pressing it against the strip-shaped sealing element. According to an alternative embodiment of the locking device, it is formed as a clamping device having clamping cheeks that act on the strip-shaped sealing elements, aligning and fixing them.

In order to form a fireproof sealing, an intumescent band or inlay can be provided on the frame member of the inventive device on a side of the frame member adjacent to the constructional element. The strip-shaped sealing elements are advantageously formed of a material that remains temperature stable over a certain period of time and can withstand fire for some time in case of fire, until the intumescent fireproof band expands, completely closing the leadthrough. E.g., fire-resistant or ablative materials can be used for forming the strip-shaped sealing elements.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the strip-shaped sealing elements themselves are formed of an actively fireproofing material. Thereby, the strip-shaped sealing elements take over not only the flue gasproofing function but also the fireproofing function. With this embodiment, the provision of an intumescent fireproof band or of an intumescent inlay on the frame member to insure fire-proofing can be dispensed with.

Advantageously, a frame section of the frame member, which is located opposite the section with an opening, is removably secured on the frame member. This enables an easy insertion of further conduits into the device even when the device is secured to the constructional element. After removing the removable frame section, the strip-shaped sealing elements can be pulled out of the leadthrough space enclosed by the frame member, so that additional conduits can be passed through the leadthrough. The removable frame section of the frame member can, e.g., be attached to the frame member with screws or a holding device. According to one embodiment of the device, the removable section if pivotally secured on the frame member so that after the release of the holding device or means, the removable section is pivoted away, without being detached, which insure that it would not be lost.

Advantageously, there are provided attachment elements for securing the frame member to the constructional component. The attachment elements can, e.g., be welded to the frame member. Advantageously, brackets, which are provided on the frame member, can have opening through which fastening elements, e.g., screws, expanding anchor, or dowel can extend for securing the frame member to the constructional component.

According to an embodiment of the invention, a box-shaped section can be provided on the frame member which, e.g., enables arrangement of the frame member at a distance from an outer wall of a constructional element. Thus, e.g., later, an insulation layer can be placed at the edge of the leadthrough. In addition, a one-sided arrangement of the inventive device on a to-be-closed leadthrough, adequately insures the flue gasproofness. With the additional box-shaped section, the inventive device can be provided already during formation of a constructional element, e.g., during casting of a boarding. When the arrangement of an intumescent fireproof band or inlay is contemplated, it is advantageously provided in the box-shaped section.

According to a further embodiment, of the invention, there is provided an arrangement with two devices for closing a leadthrough which are spaced from each other and are connected by a box-shaped section. The length of the box-shaped section, or the distance between the two devices advantageously corresponds to the thickness of the constructional element with a leadthrough, and the arrangement can be cast into the constructional element when the constructional element is formed. When the arrangement of an intumescent fireproof band or inlay is contemplated, it advantageously is provided in the box-shaped section.

The novel features of the present invention, which are considered as characteristic for the invention, are set forth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, both as to its construction and its mode of operation, together with additional advantages and objects thereof, will be best understood from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment, when read with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings show:

FIG. 1 a front, partially cross-sectional, elevational view of a device for closing an opening according to the present invention; and

FIG. 2 a longitudinal cross-section view along line II-II in FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

An arrangements for a flue gasproof closing of a wall leadthrough 2 for conduits 3 includes two devices 11 according to the present invention and which are connected with each other by a box-shape section 12. The arrangement 1 is cast-in as a whole when the wall 4 is formed. In order to insure fire protection, an intumescent fireproof band 13 is provided in the connection regions between the devices 11 and the box-shaped section 12.

Each of the devices 11 includes a frame member 16 that encloses a leadthrough space 17, and a plurality of strip-shaped sealing elements 18 which are arranged in the leadthrough space 17 parallel to each other and are displaceable relative to each other. The strip-shaped sealing elements 18 are formed of a compressible material. The strip-shaped sealing elements 18 can additionally be formed of an actively fireproofing material. In the later case, the arrangement of the intumescent fireproof bands 13 is not necessary. The frame member 16 is formed of an upper frame section 19, two side frame sections 21,22 which extend substantially perpendicular to the upper frame section 19 and are fixedly connected therewith, and a lower frame section 23 which is secured to one of the side frame sections, section 22, with a hinge 24, and which is releasably connected with another of the side frame sections, section 21, with screw means 25. The lower frame section 23 is, thus, can be pivoted downwardly in order to provide for mounting in the wall leadthrough of further conduits 3 or for removal of conduits 3. The upper frame section 19 is provided with a slot-shaped opening 20 through which the strip-shaped sealing elements 18 extend, at least partially from the leadthrough space 17.

A locking device 31 is arranged on one of the side frame sections, section 21, of the frame member 16 for securing the strip-shaped sealing elements 18. The locking device 31 has a pressure plate 32 which acts on the strip-shaped sealing elements 18, and two screws 33 which act on the pressure plate 32.

In order to provide a free space for insertion of conduits 3 through the leadthrough space 17, which is enclosed by the frame member 16, a portion of the strip-shaped sealing elements 18 is withdrawn from the leadthrough space 17, as shown in FIG. 1. After the conduits 3 are pushed through the wall leadthrough 2, the strip-shaped sealing elements 18 are brought into contact with the upper contour of the conduits 3. Upon actuation of the screws 33, the pressure plate 32 locks the strip-shaped sealing elements 18 in a position in which they are properly aligned with each other.

Two brackets 37 are welded to the upper frame section 19, and a further bracket 37 is welded to each of the side frame sections 21, 22, whereby attachment elements 36 are formed. Each of the brackets 37 has an opening 38 through which a fastening element is extendable for attaching the frame member 16 to the wall 14.

Sections 26 of the strip-shaped sealing elements 18, which project above the upper frame section 19 of the frame member 16, can be used for closing gaps 5 between the conduits 3 and adjacent thereto.

Though the present invention was shown and described with references to the preferred embodiment, such is merely illustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed as a limitation thereof, and various modifications of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. It is therefore, not intended that the present invention be limited to the disclosed embodiments or details thereof, and the present invention includes all variations and/or alternative embodiments within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. 

1. A device (11) for use in closing a leadthrough (2) in a constructional element for conduits (3), comprising a frame member (16) enclosing a leadthrough space (17); and a plurality of strip-shaped sealing elements (18) arranged in the leadthrough space (17) displaceably relative to each other, the frame member (16) having at least one frame section (19) having an opening (20) through which the strip-shaped sealing elements (18) are at least partially extendable out of the leadthrough space (17).
 2. A device according to claim 1, comprising at least one locking device (31) provided on the frame member (16) for securing the strip-shaped sealing elements (18).
 3. A device according to claim 1, wherein the strip-shaped sealing elements (18) are formed of an actively fireproofing material.
 4. A device according to claim 1, wherein the frame member (16) has a frame section (23) removably attached thereto and located opposite the at least one frame section (19).
 5. A device according to claim 1, wherein the frame member (16) has attachment elements (36) for securing the frame member (16) to the constructional element.
 6. An arrangement (1) for closing a leadthrough (2) for conduits (3) in a constructional element, comprising two closing devices (11) each having a frame member (16) enclosing a leadthrough space (17), and a plurality of strip-shaped sealing elements (18) arranged in the leadthrough space (17) displaceably relative to each other, the frame member (16) having at least one frame section (19) having an opening (20) through which the strip-shaped sealing elements (18) are at least partially extendable out of the leadthrough space (17); and a box-shaped section (12) for connecting the two devices (11) with each other. 